“A growing number of local governments and universities are becoming alarmed about declining beepopulations and are using their purchasing power to do something about it. They are requiring their suppliers to provide them with plants, pesticides and building materials that are safe for pollinators, which are critical to our food supply,” said Alicia Culver, Executive Director of the Responsible Purchasing Network.

“More than 40 jurisdictions across the United States have adopted policies to eliminate pesticides harming pollinators and expand pollinator-friendly habitat on their property. We encourage all jurisdictions across the country to take similar steps to protect pollinators,” said Tiffany Finck-Haynes with Friends of the Earth.

More than 100 businesses, cities, universities, states, and countries worldwide have passed policies to restrict pesticides contributing to pollinator decline.

###

Responsible Purchasing Network is an international network of procurement and sustainability professionals dedicated to developing and implementing sustainable procurement policies, programs, and best practices. Formed in 2005, RPN is committed to leveraging the buying power of public agencies and institutions to create demand for safe and environmentally sustainable goods and services. www.responsiblepurchasing.org

Friends of the Earth – U.S., founded by David Brower in 1969, is the U.S. voice of the world’s largest federation of grassroots environmental groups, with a presence in 74 countries. Friends of the Earth works to defend the environment and champion a more healthy and just world. www.FoE.org